Various anti-cancer drugs developed over a period of three decades, can be grouped into different categories depending upon what function of the cancerous cells they disturb so as to kill them.
Alkylating Agents: They react chemically with DNA, the genetic material of the cell, which controls its division and function. Examples are, Busulphan, Chlorambucil, Cyclophosphamide.
Antimetabolites: They interfere with DNA production. Examples are, 5-Fluro-uracil, Methotrexate, 6-Mercaptopurine, Cytocine arbinoside.
Mitotic Inhibitor: They are plant alkaloids. They interfere directly with cell division. Examples are, Vincristine, Vinblastine, Vindesine.
Antibiotics: They are derived from different strains of bacteria. They can kill cancer cells. Examples are, Adriamycin, Actinomycin-D, Bleomycin, Mitomycin C.
Miscellaneous: These are drugs that work on cancer cells in ways different from the above categories. Examples are, Asparaginase, Hexamethylmelamine, Hydroxyurea.